When I first moved to Durham, I had no idea how important a good dog boarding service could be—until my rescue pup, Max, had a rough weekend at a standard kennel. He came home stressed, muddy, and even got called “Buddy” because the staff mixed up his name. That was my wake-up call.
I knew I had to find a better option, and that’s when I discovered a whole new world of dog care.
Over the next few months, I visited many different places—from small, homey kennels in Trinity Park to big yards near the American Tobacco Trail where dogs can run free. I even checked out spots with live webcams at night, talked with owners at local dog events, and read lots of reviews while I enjoyed my morning coffee at Cocoa Cinnamon.
I quickly realized that some places really know how to care for dogs. One team even helped my shy beagle learn fun new tricks, and another offered a cozy area where older pups could relax by a warm fire.
After lots of visits (and a few funny trial runs—sorry to my neighbor’s chewed-up shoes), I finally put together a list of the 10 best dog boarding service in Durham. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious suite, special care for a diabetic pup, or just a place that sends you cute photos during outdoor adventures, these services treat your dog like part of the family. Let’s explore the best places where your dog will feel right at home.
How I Picked the Best Dog Boarding Services in Durham, NC
When my rescue dog, Max, came home from a weekend at a big-name kennel feeling anxious, dirty, and even called the wrong name, I knew I had to find something better. I didn’t want just any boarding service—I wanted a place where dogs feel safe, loved, and cared for like family.
That’s why I took my time researching the best dog boarding services in Durham, looking for the ones that truly understand dogs, not just house them.
Here’s what I focused on:
- Safety & Experience (35%) – I looked for places with trained staff who know how to handle shy, anxious, or special-needs dogs. Spots like Bull City Pet Sitting and Camp Bow Wow stood out for their round-the-clock supervision and certified caregivers.
- Clean & Cozy Spaces (25%) – No cramped cages or dirty floors here. I checked for roomy, well-kept spaces, and Creature Comforts Inn impressed me with its comfy, spotless suites.
- What Locals Say (20%) – I read tons of reviews from Durham pet owners who trusted these places during vacations, work trips, and last-minute emergencies.
- Extras & Transparency (15%) – I loved places that offered photo updates, easy pickup and drop-off, and fun perks like free baths or training sessions.
- Emergency Readiness (5%) – Bonus points went to places with vet partnerships, backup power, and solid storm plans.
I personally visited nearly every major dog boarding facility in Durham—from the big outdoor spaces at DogWoods Retreat to the cozy, home-like feel of Suite Paws.
I asked tough questions, watched how staff treated the dogs, and even tested a few places with Max (he forgave me for the less-than-perfect ones).
After months of searching, I finally found the top 10 Dog Boarding Services that truly care for your dog, not just watch them.
Average Cost of Dog Boarding Services in Durham, NC
| Service | Average Cost | Details |
| Standard Boarding | $47–$60 per night | Basic overnight care with playtime and standard accommodations. For example, The Pet Wagon Hotel charges $47 per night, including daycare playtime. |
| Premium Suites | $61–$85 per night | Private suites with additional amenities. Sunny Acres Pet Resort offers luxury boarding at $61 per night, while GoDog’s large suite is priced at $85 per night. |
| Daycare | $28–$38 per day | Supervised group play. GoDog Durham charges $38 for a full day and $28 for a half-day. |
| Bathing/Grooming | $35–$90 per session | Includes bathing and basic grooming. Dog Tales offers baths starting at $35 for dogs under 45 lbs. |
| Additional Services | Varies | Extras like extra playtime, cuddle sessions, or special treats. GoDog offers add-ons such as extra outdoor time or playtime with staff for $12–$14. |
Please remember that these prices are general estimates. The actual cost can vary based on factors like your dog’s size, specific needs, and the chosen facility’s offerings. It’s always a good idea to reach out directly to the boarding facilities to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for your dog’s stay.
A Quick Look at the 10 Best Dog Boarding Services in Durham, NC
- 1 Sunny Acres Pet Resort – rated 4.7 out of 5
- 2 The Pet Wagon Hotel – rated 4.8 out of 5
- 3 The Barkmore House – rated 5.0 out of 5
- 4 GoDog Durham – rated 4.6 out of 5
- 5 Creature Comforts Inn – rated 4.4 out of 5
- 6 Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding – rated 5.0 out of 5
- 7 Camp Bow Wow – rated 4.8 out of 5
- 8 Cary Kennels & Spa – rated 5.0 out of 5
- 9 Green Beagle Lodge – rated 4.7 out of 5
- 10 Ruff Housing Cary – rated 4.6 out of 5
#1 Sunny Acres Pet Resort
I take my dog Max to a place called Sunny Acres Pet Resort, and he loves it so much. Max is a rescue dog, and he used to get scared when I left him at other places. One time, he stayed somewhere not-so-nice and came home all muddy and sad. They even got his name wrong!
But Sunny Acres is different. When we first got there, the people were super friendly. They smiled at Max and said his name the right way. They showed us where the dogs play—it’s big, clean, and has lots of space to run. Max looked around and wagged his tail. I knew he liked it.
One day, it rained really hard and a tree branch fell down near the place. The staff quickly brought all the dogs inside. They sent me messages to let me know Max was safe. They even gave the dogs toys and a warm room to play in.
Max always gets special care here. They give him soft beds, fun things to do, and even make sure he gets help if he’s not feeling well. One time, Max slipped out of his collar on a walk, but the staff found him fast and sent me a cute picture of him lying in the sun. He looked so happy.
I can even watch Max on a little camera whenever I miss him. And if he stays for a long time, they give him a bath before he comes home.
Every time I pick Max up; he’s smiling and sleepy from all the fun. Sunny Acres takes such good care of him. It’s like a second home. If your dog needs a happy place to stay, this is the one.
| Business Name | Sunny Acres Pet Resort |
| Owner Name | N/A |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.7/5 |
| Best known for | – 7-acre countryside setting with large fenced outdoor grassy fields. – Spacious suites, some as large as 6′ wide x 18′ long. – Supervised play areas with toys, wading pools, and playground equipment. – Staff certified in Pet First Aid and CPR. – Around-the-clock camera surveillance and on-site employees for security. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Grooming |
| Website | sunnyacrespetresort.com |
| Telephone | (984) 246-0224 |
| info@SunnyAcresPetResort.com | |
| Address | 5908 US-70 (Hillsborough Rd), Durham, NC 27705 |
| Hours | Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM-12:00 PM, 1:00-6:00 PM Saturday: 7:00-11:00 AM Sunday: 4:00-5:00 PM |
#2 The Pet Wagon Hotel
When I first brought home Max, my sweet rescue dog, I promised him he’d never feel scared or forgotten again. But after a bad experience at another boarding place—where he was given food he was allergic to and left alone too long—I knew I had to find a place that truly understood him.
That’s when we found The Pet Wagon Hotel. From the very first call, they didn’t just ask the basics. They wanted to know everything about Max—his food allergies, what toys he liked, what made him nervous, even how he liked to nap. They set him up in a cozy, allergy-safe room with soft bedding, and they made sure every meal followed his exact diet.
The care they gave Max went beyond what I ever expected. They gave him gentle oatmeal baths for his itchy skin, took him on short walks when his joints felt stiff, and even kept track of which treats made him happiest (he loves salmon!). Every time he stayed, they sent me updates with photos of him smiling, lounging in the sun, or proudly carrying his favorite toy.
Now when I say “Pet Wagon,” Max perks up. He knows it means love, treats, and belly rubs from people who really care. And I know I can leave him there with full peace of mind, whether it’s for a weekend trip or a last-minute emergency.
If you’re looking for a place where your dog will be treated like family, The Pet Wagon Hotel is it. Max might be a rescue, but there, he’s treated like a king.
| Business Name | The Pet Wagon Hotel |
| Owner Name | Owned and managed by Juan Galvis and his wife, Maria Sol Arenas |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Over 10 years of service in the Triangle area with a strong reputation in the industry. – Relaxed environment with accommodations tailored to each pet’s individual needs. – Multiple supervised exercise/play areas to match dogs’ temperaments and play styles. – Enormous nature field available for off-leash nature hikes with staff. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Dog Training |
| Website | thepetwagon.com |
| Telephone | (919) 757- 6085 |
| thepetwagonhotel@gmail.com | |
| Address | 3215 Old Chapel Hill Rd, Durham, NC 27707 |
| Hours | Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
#3 The Barkmore House
When I first came to Durham, I didn’t know I would find a place that loves my dog as much as I do. But that’s what happened at The Barkmore House. My dog Max was turning 10, and I had to go on a work trip. I told them he likes peanut butter and that it was his special “gotcha day.” I didn’t ask for anything big… but they did something amazing!
They made Max a little dog cake, gave him his favorite blanket, and let him play with other gentle, older dogs like him. He looked so happy! I even got pictures of him smiling with a party hat on. It was the cutest thing ever.
One night, a big thunderstorm came. Max is usually very scared of loud sounds. But when I checked the webcam, he was sleeping like a baby! The staff had made him a cozy space with soft blankets and calm smells. They even gave him doggy headphones to help with the noise. They didn’t even tell me—they just did it because they care.
What I love most is how they treat every dog like their own. Shy dogs get special friends. Older dogs get gentle games. Every pup gets love and attention, no matter what.
After Max’s surprise birthday party (they even gave me a photo book!), I knew this place was something special. They don’t just take care of dogs—they make them feel happy, safe, and loved.
If you want your dog to have fun, feel calm, and maybe even eat cake, The Barkmore House is the place.
| Business Name | The Barkmore House |
| Owner Name | Owned and managed by Hollie Pavlica |
| Google My Business Rating | 5/5 |
| Best known for | – Provides a safe and caring environment for dogs, ensuring they are comfortable and happy while their owners are away. – Offers personalized care tailored to each dog’s unique needs. – Features 24/7 supervision, daily playtime, and regular exercise. |
| Services | Dog Daycare and Dog Boarding |
| Website | thebarkmorehouse.com |
| Telephone | (984) 312-4497 |
| hello@thebarkmorehouse.com | |
| Address | 3706 Kilgo Dr, Durham, NC 27705, United States |
| Hours | Monday – Saturday: 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
#4 GoDog Durham
When my rescue pup Max chewed through his leash and my neighbor’s garden hose during a loud thunderstorm, I knew I needed help. Max gets really nervous when he’s alone, and that day, he was scared and full of energy. A regular kennel wasn’t going to cut it. That’s when I found GoDog Durham, and everything changed.
From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel at home. They didn’t just give Max a spot to stay—they got to know him. They figured out what made him anxious and helped him feel calm and safe. That first day, Max ran through their obstacle course, curled up in a soft bed that smelled like lavender, and even started to play with other dogs. I was shocked—in a good way.
What really stood out was how much they cared. They didn’t treat Max like “just another dog.” They sent me little updates, even videos of him relaxing in their quiet playroom. They gave him special headphones to help with loud noises and gently worked on his fear of fireworks. For the first time ever, Max actually sat calmly during a July 4th celebration.
I also love how connected they are to the Durham community. They take dogs on nature walks near the American Tobacco Trail, offer free nail trims with gentle products, and remember little things—like how Max absolutely hates peas in his food. My coworker’s shy poodle, who used to hide from everyone, now walks in like she owns the place.
After a few months of daycare, overnight stays, and even a birthday party with a bacon-flavored dog cake, I can honestly say GoDog Durham is special. It’s not just a place for dogs to stay—it’s a place where they feel loved, understood, and totally themselves.
Now, every morning, Max pulls me toward the car, tail wagging like crazy. For him, GoDog isn’t just a daycare—it’s his second home.
| Business Name | GoDog Durham |
| Owner Name | GoDog was founded in 2018 by Jess and Ben Eberdt. |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.4/5 |
| Best known for | – State-of-the-art boarding and daycare center. – Offers a range of grooming services, including basic baths and deluxe treatments. – Provides a membership-based outdoor dog park and bar where humans and dogs can socialize together. |
| Services | Dog Daycare, Dog Boarding and Dog Grooming |
| Website | godoghq.com |
| Telephone | (919) 246-7530 |
| thepetwagonhotel@gmail.com | |
| Address | 4350 Garrett Rd, Durham, NC 27707 |
| Hours | – Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
#5 Creature Comforts Inn
I found Creature Comforts Inn when my sweet old dog Max got very sick one night. Max is a rescue and also a senior. His tummy is very picky, and he gets scared sometimes. One day at a family picnic at Durham Central Park, he ate something bad and started throwing up. I was so scared. I needed a safe place for him, fast.
When I called Creature Comforts Inn, they were super kind. They said, “Bring Max, we’ll take care of him.” And they really did. They gave him soft food for his tummy, his medicine on time, and even had someone check on him all night long. It felt like a doggie hospital, but cozy like home.
What I love most is that they don’t just “watch” dogs—they know dogs. They made a special plan just for Max. They remembered he doesn’t like loud noises or cold floors. They gave him soft beds and even helped his old legs feel better with a warm-water doggie bath (called hydrotherapy).
The place is super clean, and the people there smile every time Max walks in. They even have slow, gentle playgroups just for older dogs like him. Their prices are easy to understand—no sneaky charges. And they’re really close to Southpoint Mall, so I can run errands and still check on Max with their updates.
Now, Max gets so happy when we drive near Creature Comforts Inn. He wags his tail like crazy and looks out the window, waiting to go inside. I think he believes it’s a little vacation for him!
If your dog needs extra love, medicine, or just a quiet, happy place to stay, Creature Comforts Inn is the best.
| Business Name | Creature Comforts Inn |
| Owner Name | Ms. Trisha Conger serves as the Manager of Marketing, and Ms. Rachel McKee is the Business Manager |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Provides a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for pets. – Offers spacious accommodations for both dogs and cats. – Adjacent to Cornwallis Road Animal Hospital, ensuring prompt medical attention if needed. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Bathing Services |
| Website | creaturecomfortsinn.com |
| Telephone | (919) 489-1490 |
| N/A | |
| Address | 200 W Cornwallis Rd, Durham, NC 27707 |
| Hours | – Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Sunday: Closed |
#6 Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding
When I first brought Max to Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding in Durham, I was really worried. Max is my rescue dog, and he gets very scared by loud noises like fireworks. I knew he needed extra care and love—not just a place to stay.
The people at Dog Tales were amazing. They didn’t just put Max in a cage. They made him his own quiet, cozy space where scary sounds couldn’t bother him. They gave him soft blankets and played gentle music to help him relax.
What made me happiest was how much they cared about Max’s feelings. They noticed he was shy around new people, so they found a gentle dog friend to help him feel safe and brave. They even sent me pictures showing Max playing happily and feeling proud of himself.
One day, they saw Max walking a little funny, and they gave him extra gentle playtime to make sure he didn’t get hurt. I didn’t even have to ask—they just knew what he needed.
Now, when I say “Dog Tales,” Max jumps up and wags his tail. He knows it’s a place where he can have fun and feel safe. If you want a special place that takes great care of your dog, Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding is the best.
| Business Name | Dog Tales Day Camp and Boarding |
| Owner Name | The business is managed by Ms. Samantha Bondo, Mr. Mark Bondo, Ms. Jessica Tucker, and Mr. David Tucker Jr. |
| Google My Business Rating | 5.0/5 |
| Best known for | – Nestled on 15 acres of scenic land with hiking trails, creek beds, and spacious doggie play areas. – Owner-operated facility focused on keeping dogs safe, active, and happy. – Small, home-based kennel featuring 12 comfortable suites, allowing for personalized care and attention. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Bathing Services |
| Website | dogtalesnc.com |
| Telephone | (919) 691-7613 |
| dogtalesnc@gmail.com | |
| Address | 1204 Patterson Road, Durham, NC 27704 |
| Hours | N/A |
#7 Camp Bow Wow
My dog Max loves to be around people—but only his people. When I had to travel for a family wedding, I was so worried. Max had never stayed anywhere without me before. He gets nervous around strangers and sometimes won’t eat when he’s in a new place.
A friend told me about Camp Bow Wow, so I gave them a call. From the start, they were kind and patient. They said, “Let’s start with a little visit so Max can get used to us.” That made me feel better.
When we walked in, Max was shy at first. But they let him explore slowly. He sniffed around, met one gentle dog, and got a treat (they even asked first if he had any allergies!). The staff didn’t rush. They talked softly, gave Max space, and soon he was wagging his tail.
During his first overnight stay, they sent me videos of Max playing with a quiet group of dogs. He was eating, sleeping, and even joined a “sniff and seek” game where he hunted for treats in a ball pit! That’s his new favorite thing now.
The best part? When I picked Max up, he didn’t just look okay—he looked happy. He gave the staff a goodbye lick and came home tired but calm. No stress, no shaking, just a sweet sleepy pup.
Now when I pack my suitcase, Max runs to the door. He thinks he’s going on vacation too!
If your dog is a little nervous or new to staying away from home, Camp Bow Wow makes it easy. They don’t just watch your dog—they really get them. Max has found his second home, and I found peace of mind.
| Business Name | Camp Bow Wow North Durham |
| Owner Name | Mac Renfro and Marianna Renfro |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Provides a fun, safe, and reliable environment for dogs, featuring indoor and outdoor play yards. – Offers live webcams for pet parents to monitor their dogs – All-inclusive pricing without hidden fees |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Dog Training and Dog Grooming |
| Website | campbowwow.com |
| Telephone | (984) 384-6257 |
| N/A | |
| Address | 4310 Bennett Memorial Road, Durham, NC 27705 |
| Hours | – Monday – Saturday: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
#8 Cary Kennels & Spa
Max, my lively rescue dog, always got scared during bath time. He would shake and try to hide, making it hard to keep him clean. I wanted to help him, so I found Cary Kennels & Spa.
When we first went there, the people were very kind. They let Max Walk around and sniff everything so he could feel safe. They didn’t rush him and spoke to him softly.
We chose the “Reset” Trim package. This meant Max got a gentle bath with a special blueberry-smelling shampoo that didn’t hurt his eyes. They also used a shampoo that was just right for his skin. The warm water and soft hands made Max relax.
The place was quiet and calm, which helped Max feel better. The people there made sure he was comfortable and happy the whole time. They even gave him a soft blanket to dry off with.
Now, when we go to Cary Kennels & Spa, Max wags his tail and walks in happily. Bath time isn’t scary anymore. If your dog doesn’t like baths, I think Cary Kennels & Spa can help.
| Business Name | Cary Kennels & Spa |
| Owner Name | N/A |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | Specializes in caring for dogs that are anxious in high-volume locations, offering individualized attention. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Dog Grooming |
| Website | carykennelsandspa.com |
| Telephone | (919) 500-6981 |
| carykennelsandspa@gmail.com | |
| Address | 110 Woodwinds Industrial Ct. Suite F, Cary, NC 27511 |
| Hours | – Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Sunday: Drop-off between 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM; Pick-up between 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
#9 Green Beagle Lodge
I trust Green Beagle Lodge if you want people who really love and understand dogs. When I had to leave town for a family emergency, I was so worried about leaving Max, my sweet rescue dog. He’s used to a calm home, and I didn’t want him to feel scared or lonely.
But Green Beagle Lodge made everything okay. From the first time I talked to them, they asked all the right questions. They wanted to know Max’s routine, his favorite snacks, what makes him nervous, and how he likes to sleep. They even wrote it all down so everyone would know how to take care of him.
Max got to play outside with other dogs, run around in the fresh air, and get lots of hugs from the kind staff. They gave him his medicine on time and even made sure his meals were just right—no surprise charges for any of that.
What I liked most was how clean and happy the place felt. Max stayed in a comfy room with his own space, and when I picked him up, he looked rested and cheerful—not stressed or dirty like at other places.
Their prices are clear and fair. It didn’t cost extra for playtime or cuddles, which made me feel so much better. And it was super easy to drop him off and pick him up.
Now when Max sees his bag, he gets excited because he knows he’s going to the lodge. If you’re looking for a place that treats your dog like family, Green Beagle Lodge is the one.
| Business Name | Green Beagle Lodge |
| Owner Name | Margy & David Schmidt and Tammy & Drew Purner |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | All-inclusive care with no hidden fees for feeding, playtime, medication, or other traditional |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding, Grooming and Dog Training |
| Website | greenbeaglelodge.com |
| Telephone | (919) 929-7387 |
| chapelhill@greenbeaglelodge.com | |
| Address | 6805 Millhouse Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 |
| Hours | – Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Sunday: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
#10 Ruff Housing Cary
I trust Ruff Housing Cary if you need a team that truly cares about your dog. This local place offers great services like daycare, boarding, and grooming, all made to fit what each dog needs.
One day, I had to go to a full-day wedding out of town. I couldn’t bring Max, my rescue dog, and I didn’t want to leave him home alone. He gets nervous in new places, so I was really hoping to find somewhere that would make him feel safe and happy. Ruff Housing Cary was the perfect choice.
From the start, they were kind and patient. They took time to learn about Max—what food he likes, how he plays, and even that he needs extra cuddles when it’s noisy. Their all-in-one care meant everything was included—meals, playtime, and even his medicine.
What I really love is how safe and fun they make it. Max got lots of time outside to play, and the staff gave him so much love. The place is super clean, and they treat every dog like they’re special.
The prices are fair and simple. A comfy room for Max didn’t cost too much, and there were no surprise charges. It was easy to drop him off in the morning and pick him up after the wedding, stress-free.
If you’re looking for people who will treat your pup like family, Ruff Housing Cary is the place. Max had such a good time, now he gets excited every time we drive by!
| Business Name | Ruff Housing Cary |
| Owner Name | N/A |
| Google My Business Rating | 4.8/5 |
| Best known for | – Offers luxury dog daycare, boarding, and grooming with a focus on quality care, safety, and enrichment. – Provides enrichment-based daycare programs designed to offer the right combination of exercise, socialization, and rest. – Ensures all counselors are certified in pet first aid and CPR, as well as advanced dog behavior and training. |
| Services | Daycare, Boarding and Dog Grooming |
| Website | ruffhousing.com |
| Telephone | (919) 276-5911 |
| N/A | |
| Address | 1605 NW Maynard Road, Cary, NC 27513 |
| Hours | – Monday – Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Sunday: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
A Few Tips Before You Book Dog Boarding in Durham, NC
• Check their cleaning routine: A clean place is a must. I once went to a kennel that smelled awful, and I swore I’d never go back. Look for places like Creature Comforts Inn or Camp Bow Wow, where they take cleanliness seriously, and you won’t find any bad smells.
• Look at recent customer photos: Take a look at reviews on sites like Yelp and Google. You want to see real pictures of the play areas, kennels, and how the staff interacts with the dogs. If the dogs in the photos look stressed or the yards look dirty, keep looking.
• Ask about their safety protocols: If you’re a little picky (like me!), make sure to ask about emergency plans, how many staff are with the dogs, and how they give medications. Bull City Pet Sitting and Suite Paws are known for being open and clear about these things.
• Read reviews from the last 3 months: A great review from a year ago won’t help if the place has changed. Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic is consistent, but always check for recent reviews on websites like Rover.com or Yelp to see what’s current.
• Book a short stay first: Start with a quick overnight stay or a daycare visit to see how your dog does. Services like The Pet Wagon and Rover.com let you try out sitters before committing to longer stays.
Safety Note
All the places on this list follow Durham County’s boarding rules and are properly licensed, but here’s how to stay extra careful:
• Check vaccination rules: Good spots like Creature Comforts Inn and Eno Animal Hospital require your dog to be up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and parasite checks—no exceptions.
• Ask about staff training: Find out if the staff is trained in pet first aid and CPR. Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic even has a special certification (AAHA).
• Watch out for outdoor risks: Don’t choose a place that ties dogs outside near streets. That’s not allowed by Durham’s animal laws.
Better to be safe than sorry, right? A quick call to check these details will make sure your dog’s stay is both safe and fun.
Local Expert Opinion
Dr. Lisa, a vet at Happy Tails Veterinary Emergency Clinic, says,
“Dog boarding in Durham has really improved over the last few years. Places like Camp Bow Wow and Creature Comforts Inn now offer 24/7 care, work with vets for medical boarding, and even have live cameras so pet owners can watch their dogs. The competition has made everyone focus more on safety, cleanliness, and giving each pet personal care—it’s a great thing for both pets and their owners.”
Final Thoughts on the 10 Best Dog Boarding in Durham, NC
After visiting lots of dog boarding places in Durham, I found out there’s a perfect spot for every kind of dog. Some dogs like to run and play all day, some want peace and quiet, and some need a little extra love or care. No matter what your dog likes, Durham has a place for them.
Sunny Acres Pet Resort has big outdoor yards, so dogs who love to run can be happy there. The Barkmore House feels more like a cozy home, which is great for dogs who like soft beds and calm days. And GoDog Durham makes it super easy for busy dog parents, with daycare and boarding that fits your schedule.
What I liked most is that all of these places are super clean, super safe, and the people there really care. They take time to get to know your dog and make sure they’re happy while you’re away. People in Durham really trust these places, and the reviews are all full of smiles and tail wags.
So, if you need a place for your dog while you’re on a trip or at work, don’t worry. Your pup will be in good hands—and maybe even have a little vacation of their own!
